World Vision rushes relief supplies to Haiti earthquake survivors

- CIDA match offer expected to increase private donations -

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Jan. 14 /CNW/ - Today, World Vision will rush 18 metric tons of life-saving supplies from its warehouse in Denver to the island nation of Haiti , which was hit by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake Tuesday, which has affected some 3 million people.

These supplies and others already pre-positioned by the aid group will help meet the immediate survival needs of those affected by the quake until rebuilding efforts can begin.

"When emergencies like this earthquake happen, it is critical that children and families gain access to basic supplies as quickly as possible," said Dave Toycen, president and CEO, World Vision Canada , who is on the ground in Port au Prince . "We keep supplies like these ready at all times in warehouses around the world, so that we can move immediately when emergencies like this happen anywhere."

    
    Today's shipment will include the following supplies:

    -   tarpaulins for temporary shelter
    -   blankets
    -   collapsible water containers
    -   hygiene kits, which include a month's supply of toilet paper,
        sanitary pads, toothbrushes, toothpaste, combs, body soap and laundry
        soap for a family of five
    -   cooking sets, which include aluminum pots and pans, bowls, utensils
    

The flight will leave Denver airport today at 5:30 p.m. and is scheduled to arrive in Port-au-Prince at 6:30 a.m. on Friday.

In addition, Canada's decision to match private donations given to humanitarian organizations for emergency relief in Haiti will measurably lift donations and help save lives.

"We are extremely encouraged by the government's decision," said Toycen. "It will dramatically improve our ability to provide emergency supplies to survivors and help rebuild Port au Prince ."

Donations made by individual Canadians to eligible Canadian charitable organizations over the period of January 12 to February 12, 2010 will be matched dollar for dollar by the Government of Canada through the CIDA-managed Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund.

World Vision has been working in Haiti for some 30 years and has 800 staff members in Haiti . While World Vision's office in the capital sustained significant damage, all staff were confirmed safe and are initiating a response to the devastation.

World Vision's goal is to raise $5 million as quickly as possible to help children and families in Haiti to help as many of the 3 million people who have been affected by this disaster. Those wishing to contribute can visit www.worldvision.ca or call 1-800-268-5528.

    
    -   World Vision donors support more than 52,000 children in Haiti,
        including more than 10,800 children sponsored by Canadians.
    -   World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy
        organization dedicated to working with children, families and
        communities to overcome poverty and injustice. World Vision serves
        all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.
    

For further information: To interview World Vision staff or for more information, please contact: Yoko Kobayashi, [phone] ext. 2151, [phone] (cell), [email protected]; Britt Hamilton, [phone] ext. 3973, [phone] (cell), [email protected]